ABSTRACT
Most compartment syndromes involve the lower leg but other sites, such as the thigh and upper limb, could also be affected.
Compartment syndrome results from increased pressure within a confined closed space, which will compromise the blood flow and function of the soft tissues. Acute and chronic forms of a compartment syndrome may exist. Acute compartment syndrome is associated with an injury including soft tissue damage or a fracture. Chronic compartment syndromes present as exercise-related lower leg soreness. The athlete complains of localised tightness with pain during or after exercise, which could last for some time. There are no other findings and peripheral pulses are present and normal. On occasions the complaint may be paraesthesia alongside the anterior ankle and the dorsum of the foot. Precipitating factors include a sudden increase in intensity and duration of the sports activity or in sports such as running or tennis practising on hard surfaces. New equipment such as new footwear must be assessed as they will change the biomechanical balance of the legs and feet.
